Grape-Vine - Vintage Gold Plated Synthetic Opal & Crystal Rhinestone Pendant & 14K Gold Fill Chain (VP299)

Grape-Vine - Vintage Gold Plated Synthetic Opal & Crystal Rhinestone Pendant & 14K Gold Fill Chain (VP299)

$195.00

Grape-Vine - Vintage Gold Plated Synthetic Opal & Crystal Rhinestone Pendant & 14K Gold Fill Chain. This lovely pendant is crafted from gold plate over metal. The pendant features 6 oval cut synthetic opals, one round cut crystal rhinestone, Vintage era styling, and quality craftsmanship. This pendant is created in the form of a grape-vine cascade. The grape-vine exhibits engraved foliage, which is adorned by beautiful opals, and a sparkling clear rhinestone. The opals display flashes of colour in different light intensities, whilst the rhinestone adds a twinkle to the piece. The design is sculptural, and very attractive when worn. The bale is a 'V' design, which is solid, and substantial enough to suspend the gallery. The chain is an antique belcher design, which features a springing clasp in perfect working order. The vintage pendant would make a great addition to any jewelry collection.

History: Synthetic opals were first successfully created in 1974 by Pierre Gilson in France, following the 1960s discovery of opal's spherical silica structure. These lab-grown gems mimic natural opal by settling silica spheres into a grid, a process taking over a year. Key features include a distinct columnar or "snake skin" pattern, often identifiable under magnification.

The term Rhinestone was given to the little sparkles after the river Rhine, where quartz pebbles, rock crystals with a high lead content were originally found. Folk would collect them from the shores, jewellers cutting and moulding them into little imitation diamonds. Crystal rhinestones can be found foil backed or without foil. The crystals in this ring are not foiled, which makes for easy cleaning.

The history of gold-filled jewellery traces back to early 19th century England, where this technique was patented to create semi-precious and better-quality custom jewellery during the Victorian Era.

As long as gold filled pieces are well cared for, they can last a lifetime. Gold plated pieces, on the other hand, can last up to a year if kept away from water, wear, and heat. It's also worth mentioning that gold filled pieces with lower karat weight (9-14k) may be more durable than pieces with greater gold content. Victorian gold filled jewelry can last for centuries.

What Is Gold-plated Jewelry? Gold-plated jewelry is a type of metal jewelry covered with a very thin layer of real gold. The process was invented in 1805 by Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli who plated a very thin gold layer on top of silver.

Measurements: Pendant 42.00 mm x 17.50 mm Chain 18"

Stone Size: Opal 1.20 carats

Weight: 3.50 grams

Condition: Good Note: Age related wear to gold plate. One Opal has a chip on the side of the gem (see photos) . The wear and the chip on the opal does not take-a-way from the beauty of the piece.

Origin: America

Date: Circa 1970

info@raritiesantiquejewelry.com

Grape-Vine - Vintage Gold Plated Synthetic Opal & Crystal Rhinestone Pendant & 14K Gold Fill Chain (VP299)

Rarities Antique Jewelry

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